I became friends with Blake Stoker on Facebook and watched his growth in the BBQ realm. This guy may look young - well, he is young - but looks are deceiving. This guy knows his stuff. And, he put work in to learn the craft before opening his joint in Martin, Tennessee.
Blake's at Southern Milling follows a concept that's common with Northwest Tennessee and the Upstate of South Carolina, old mills and country stores repurposed into hospitality-focused businesses. It's a great way to keep the natural history while exposing new generations to what used to be with what's fresh now. In Simpsonville, South Carolina, what was the local country store Vaughn's Feed & Seed has become the prosperous Warehouse at Vaughn's.
Blake held the BBQ joint's grand opening in May of this year. People slept outside the door just to be first inside when it opened. And, folks came from Texas to make sure it was legit.
The result? Many mouths left super pleased that day.
Blake started out with a food trailer. He built his reputation of serving quality food at a decent price on the daily. More, he wasn't complacent. He tried new things not seen in his area.
Blake is on the right path with his food. Just see for yourself.
“Honestly, to eventually be considered the best restaurant in the southeast, if I’m being honest, that’s going to take a lot of work and a lot of commitment from staff and everything. But if we set our minds to it, that would be a goal,” Stoker said.
With that, and the dedication and determination already shown, I think he's well on his way to the top of list.
But, there's more than just BBQ here. Also under the roof is a full-service bar and a bakery.
Make plans when you visit Martin, Tennessee, to stop by 109 S. Lindell Street for a culinary experience you'll never forget. Trust me, your taste buds will let you know!
#gotoyournomnomplace and be a #culinaryencourager
We enjoyed Blake’s Thursday at 4:00pm. No wait we loved it! The ambiance is so calm, relaxing. The staff everyone was so cordial. Now is the explanation of the food; excellent, tasty, plentiful. Now is the time to go! Sit by the windows watching traffic go by on Lindell Street in Martin TN. You will not believe you are in the most beautiful place anywhere!